Flying with Air France Pets Made Easy

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Air France allows pets in the cabin and as checked baggage, making it a convenient option for pet owners.

You can bring your pet in the cabin if it fits in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

Air France accepts pets in the cabin on most flights, but it's best to check with the airline for specific requirements.

Some pets may be too large for the cabin, so they'll need to be checked as baggage.

You'll need to provide a health certificate for your pet within 10 days of travel, and a rabies vaccination must be up to date.

Air France also requires a special IATA-approved pet carrier for checked baggage.

It's essential to check with Air France for specific requirements and regulations regarding your pet's travel documents.

Classes of Service Offered

If you're planning to travel with your pet on Air France, you'll want to know about the different classes of service offered.

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You can fly with your pet in the cabin on certain flights, but they must fly with an adult passenger and travel in an airline compliant carrier stowed under the seat.

If your pet is too large to fit in the cabin or isn't permitted due to breed, you can transport them as checked baggage in the cargo hold.

Unaccompanied, very large pets or those flying to countries that require pets to enter under air cargo will travel as manifest cargo in the hold.

Here are the classes of service offered to pets by Air France:

  • In-Cabin: Pets traveling in the cabin must fly with an adult passenger and travel in an airline compliant carrier stowed under the seat.
  • Checked Baggage: Pets traveling with a passenger that are not permitted in the cabin due to size or breed can be transported as checked baggage in the cargo hold.
  • Air Cargo: Unaccompanied, very large pets or pets flying to countries that require that pets enter under air cargo will travel as manifest cargo in the hold.

In-Cabin Travel

In-cabin travel with Air France pets is possible, but there are certain requirements to meet. You can bring a small dog or cat weighing less than 8 kg (17 lbs), including their carrier, into the cabin with you.

The maximum size of the carrier is 46 x 28 x 24 cm (18 x 11 x 9 in), and it must have plenty of ventilation. Your pet needs to be at least 15 weeks old and have all required vaccinations.

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You'll need to get permission from customer service before bringing your pet in-cabin, and pets are not allowed in Business Class on intercontinental flights. The kennel must fit underneath the seat in front of you, and you're not permitted to remove your pet from their carrier at any time during the flight.

Here are the general guidelines for transporting pets in the cabin:

  • Only cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin.
  • The maximum weight of the pet and carrier combined is 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
  • Only one pet per passenger is allowed.
  • The pet must have all necessary documentation, including a health certificate and any required vaccination records.
  • The carrier must meet specifications for Air France pet carrier size, ventilation, and security.

For flights within mainland France and between mainland France and certain other islands, the minimum age requirement is 8 weeks for pets.

Cabin and Checked Baggage

Air France allows small pets in the cabin on certain flights, including those within the United States, Canada, US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. These pets must be clean, healthy, harmless, mannerly, and not pose a threat to other passengers or flight crew.

Small cats, dogs, and household birds are permitted in the cabin as long as they fit in an airline-compliant pet carrier. If your pet's size exceeds this requirement, it will be transported as checked baggage.

Air France requires a kennel that meets International Air Transport Association guidelines for checked baggage and accompanied baggage in the hold. The kennel must be made of fiberglass or hard plastic, fastened with bolts.

Checked Baggage

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If the size of your pet is too large to fit in an airline-compliant pet carrier, or it is a pet other than a cat or dog, it will be transported as checked baggage on Air France.

Only cats and dogs are allowed in checked baggage, and they must be at least 15 weeks old, unless you're traveling domestically or between mainland France and Guadeloupe, Martinique, or Reunion, in which case they can be up to 8 weeks old.

Checked baggage pets must have up-to-date vaccinations and meet all health requirements of the country of departure, arrival, and/or correspondence.

Air France allows you to reserve up to three animals in checked baggage per passenger, but not all flights or destinations can accommodate all size pets, so advance reservations are required.

You'll need to check in your pet at the airport terminal, and the airline will move your pet between aircraft in their fleet during layovers if the layover is not over about 3 hours in length.

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Snub-nosed animals are not allowed in checked baggage on Air France flights, including breeds such as Affenpinscher, Boston Terrier, and Pug.

Here are some pet breeds that are not allowed in checked baggage on Air France:

  • Affenpinscher
  • Boston Terrier
  • Boxer (all breeds)
  • Bulldog (all breeds)
  • Bull Mastiff
  • Cane Corso
  • Pug (all breeds)
  • Chow-Chow
  • Great Dane (all breeds)
  • Certain Spaniels (Tibetan, Japanese, King Charles)
  • Griffon Bruxellois
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Mastiff (all breeds)
  • Mâtin Napolitain
  • Pékinois
  • Petit Brabançon
  • Shih Tzu
  • Shar Pei
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  • Burmese
  • Exotic Shorthair
  • Himalayan
  • Persian

Category 1 and 2 dogs, including American Staffordshire Terriers, also known as Pit Bulls, Mastiffs, Tosa Dogs, and Rottweillers, are not allowed in checked baggage on Air France flights.

Check In

Check in early, as you'll need extra time to complete pet-related paperwork and answer any questions. This will help you avoid any last-minute stress.

Your pet airline carrier will count as an excess piece of carry-on luggage, so be prepared for that extra cost. The cost will be collected at the time of check-in.

Have your pet's documents handy, including health certificates and vaccination records. Remember, your pet must be at least 15 weeks old (8 weeks for some domestic flights).

Double-check your pet carrier before you leave home. It shouldn't exceed 46x28x24cm (18x11x9in) and must allow your pet to stand and turn comfortably.

Only one pet per carrier is allowed, and you're limited to one pet in the cabin.

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Pet Requirements

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You can bring your dog or cat on an Air France aircraft, and even other types of animals like horses, chicks, and pigs, as long as they meet the airline's requirements.

The weight of your cat or dog, including their carrier, must not exceed 17.6 pounds or 8 kg.

You'll need to choose a crate that's specifically designed for air travel and made of approved materials to ensure your pet's safety.

Air France Cargo can also carry other types of animals, so don't be afraid to reach out if you have a unique pet that needs to travel with you.

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Pet Travel Process

To request Air France to travel with your pet, you can follow their online booking system or contact their customer service. You'll need to provide information about your pet, including its breed, weight, and size, as well as the type of carrier you'll be using.

To ensure a smooth check-in process, arrive early and have your pet's documents handy, including health certificates and vaccination records. Your pet must be at least 15 weeks old and meet the airline's size requirements for the carrier.

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Here's a quick checklist to keep in mind:

  • Have your pet's documents ready, including health certificates and vaccination records.
  • Ensure your pet carrier meets Air France's size requirements (46x28x24cm or 18x11x9in).
  • Only one pet per carrier is allowed, and you're limited to one pet in the cabin.
  • Get a soft-sided in-cabin travel carrier that fits underneath the seat in front of you.
  • Pay a fee for your pet's travel kennel, which is considered an additional bag.

By following these steps and planning ahead, you can ensure a safe and comfortable trip for both you and your pet.

In-Cabin Carrier Requirements

In-cabin carrier requirements are crucial to ensure a safe and comfortable flight for your furry friend. Your pet carrier must be soft-sided, as they're more flexible and easier to fit under the seat.

The carrier must not exceed the dimensions of 46 cm x 28 cm x 24 cm (18 in x 11 in x 9 in) and must fit under the seat in front of you.

Only one pet per carrier is allowed, and the pet and carrier together must not weigh more than 8 kg (17 lbs).

A secure locking system and ventilation are essential for your pet's comfort. The carrier must also be leak-proof.

If you have a snub-nosed breed, you'll need a vet's note confirming they're fit to fly. These breeds sometimes struggle with air travel, so it's best to get the all-clear first.

Here's a summary of the in-cabin carrier requirements:

Request Online

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Requesting to travel with your pet online can be a straightforward process. You can start by going to Air France's website and selecting the "Book a Flight" option.

To book a flight with your pet, you'll need to provide details of your travel, including arrival and departure dates, number of passengers, and cities. The online system will guide you through the process.

On the passenger information page, simply select the option for traveling with a pet. You'll then be asked to provide information about your pet, including its breed, weight, and size, as well as the type of carrier you'll be using.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

  • Go to the website and select the “Book a Flight” option.
  • Feed details of your travel along with arrival & departure dates, number and cities.
  • Select the option for travelling with a pet.
  • Provide information about your pet, including its breed, weight, and size, as well as the type of carrier you will be using.
  • Continue with the booking process and complete your payment.

Once you've completed your booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with details about your pet's travel arrangements.

How to Fly?

To fly with your pet, you'll need to check Air France's pet policy beforehand to determine the requirements for your pet's carrier and any additional fees. It's also crucial to book your flight early to ensure there's enough space for your pet.

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You can travel with your pet in the cabin or cargo hold on many Air France flights, but you'll need to follow the airline's guidelines and prepare your pet for the journey. In-cabin travel is allowed for cats and dogs weighing less than 8 kg (17 lbs), including their travel carrier.

To travel in-cabin, you'll need a soft-sided carrier that meets specific size requirements: no bigger than 46 x 28 x 24 cm / 18 x 11 x 9 in. The kennel must have plenty of ventilation and be large enough for your pet to stand up and spin around comfortably.

If you're traveling with a pet in the hold, you must present yourself at the check-in counter approximately 3 hours prior to departure. You'll also need to check in at the airport counter at the beginning of each leg of your trip, especially if your flight has one or more connections.

Here's a summary of the in-cabin travel requirements:

  • Cats and dogs weighing less than 8 kg (17 lbs), including their carrier
  • Soft-sided carrier no bigger than 46 x 28 x 24 cm / 18 x 11 x 9 in
  • Carrier must have ventilation and be large enough for your pet to stand up and spin around
  • Only one pet per passenger
  • Pet must be at least 15 weeks old and have all required vaccinations

Pet Travel Fees and Reminders

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Air France allows pets in the cabin or as checked baggage, but be aware that there are weight and size restrictions.

The maximum weight for pets in the cabin is 8 kg (17.6 lbs) and the maximum size is 85 x 39 x 23 cm (33 x 15 x 9 in).

You'll need to purchase a ticket for your pet if it exceeds 8 kg, but the ticket price is the same as an adult ticket.

The pet travel fee for checked baggage is 75-125 euros, depending on the route.

Pet Travel Restrictions

Air France has a strict pet travel policy to ensure the safety and comfort of your furry friend. They ban certain breeds from traveling in the cargo hold due to health risks, including snub-nosed breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers.

The French Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry sets the regulations for banned breeds. If you own a Category 1 dog, like a pit bull or mastiff, you'll need to make other travel arrangements.

Air France also has size and weight restrictions for pets, with a maximum weight of 17.6 pounds (8 kg) for cats and dogs, including their carrier. The airline requires a crate that meets their strict requirements, including approved materials and a design for air travel.

Special Requirements Imposed

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All live animals flying with Air France in the cabin or as checked baggage must be claimed and rechecked at their layover airport, even if they will be remaining on Air France for the rest of the journey.

This will cause your pet to enter the layover country, and it must conform to regulations of the layover country.

The weight of all cats and dogs including their carrier must not exceed 17.6 pounds (8 kg).

Cats and dogs must travel in a crate that conforms to regulations imposed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Wooden crates are not permitted, so you'll need to choose a crate made of approved materials.

Soft-sided bags are a good option for in-cabin pet carriers, but snub-nosed breeds may require special consideration from a vet before booking.

If you're traveling with a dog, make sure it's one of the breeds allowed under Air France's pet policy.

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Carrier Dimensions

Carrier Dimensions are crucial when traveling with your pet on an Air France flight. The pet carrier must not exceed 46 cm x 28 cm x 24 cm (18 in x 11 in x 9 in) in size to fit under the seat in front of you.

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For pets traveling in the cabin, the pet and carrier together must not weigh more than 8 kg (17 lbs). This is a hard limit, so choose a carrier that fits within these dimensions and weight constraints.

The pet carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated, with a secure locking system to ensure your pet's safety during the flight.

Here are the carrier dimensions for pets traveling in the cabin and hold:

The dimensions for the hold carrier are significantly larger, so make sure to choose a carrier that meets these requirements if you're planning to travel with your pet in the hold.

Breed Restrictions

Air France has breed restrictions on cats and dogs they will allow to travel. These restrictions are in place for safety and health concerns.

Air France entirely bans Category 1 dogs, which include breeds like Staffordshire Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers (pit bulls), Mastiffs, and Tosas.

If you own a Category 2 dog, such as a pedigree Staffordshire Terrier, you can still fly, but your furry friend must travel in cargo.

A unique perspective: Category 2 Dogs France

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Some snub-nosed breeds are not allowed to fly in the hold due to health risks, but may travel in-cabin or as freight under special conditions.

Here are some examples of snub-nosed breeds that are not allowed to fly in the hold:

  • Dogs - Affenpinscher, Boxers (all breeds), Bull Mastiff, Cane Corso, Chow-Chow, Great Danes (all breeds), some Spaniels (Tibetan, Japanese, English, King Charles), Brussels Griffon, Lhasa Apso, Mastiffs (all breeds), Neapolitan Mastiff, Pekingese, Small Brabant, Shih Tzu, Shar Pei, Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  • Cats - Burmese, Exotic Shorthair, Himalayan, Persian

Air France will not allow any of these breeds to travel as freight (cargo): Pug, Bulldog, and Boston Terrier.

It's best to consult the customer service team to ensure you will not run into any issues with Air France's breed restrictions.

Service Animals

Service animals are welcome on Air France flights, and they don't have to pay extra fees. They can accompany you onboard, regardless of their weight, but you'll need to keep them leashed and under control throughout the flight.

To travel with a service animal, you'll need to show your certification and health documents when you check in. This helps ensure everyone's safety and comfort during the flight.

Air France recognizes the vital role service animals play for passengers with disabilities. They'll need time to process your request, so be prepared to provide the necessary documentation and information.

Service Dogs

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Service dogs are welcome on Air France flights, and they can accompany you onboard without any weight restrictions. Just remember to keep your pup leashed and under control throughout the flight.

You'll need to show your service dog certification and health documents when you check in, so be prepared with those. This is a standard procedure to ensure everyone's safety and comfort during the flight.

Air France will need some time to process your request and make sure everything is in order for your journey. Be patient and plan ahead, and you'll be all set.

If you're traveling with a service dog, you won't have to pay any additional fees for its transportation. That's a big plus!

Here are some key requirements to keep in mind for traveling with a service dog on Air France:

  • Meet all hygienic and health regulations in the country of departure, destination, and any connections.
  • Always be restrained with a leash.
  • Cannot hinder the aircraft's aisles.
  • Has to behave properly at all times.
  • Prohibited from sitting down and from standing up close to the emergency exits.

Emotional Support Animals

Emotional support animals are not recognized as service animals by Air France, so if you want to bring your furry friend on a flight, you'll need to follow the standard pet travel regulations.

For more insights, see: Animals Found in France

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Your pet and its carrier can't weigh more than 8kg (17lb) combined, which is roughly the size of a medium-sized dog or a chunky cat.

The carrier itself can't be bigger than 46x28x24cm (18x11x9in) – think of a small suitcase.

You can still bring your pet on the flight, but be aware of these size and weight restrictions.

Pet Travel Information

Air France allows pets to travel in the cabin or cargo hold on many of its flights, but it's essential to check their policy beforehand to determine the size restrictions, any additional fees, and requirements for your pet's carrier.

To ensure a smooth journey, book your flight early to guarantee enough space for your pet, and choose a comfortable carrier that meets Air France's size requirements.

Air France KLM Martinair Cargo can also carry other types of animals, such as horses, chicks, ornamental fish, pigs, cows, and hatching eggs.

Pet Travel

Air France allows pets in the cabin for certain flights, but larger animals must travel in the cargo hold.

Credit: youtube.com, #Pet Travel Guide: How to Travel Safely with Your Dog & Cat ✈️🚗

You can bring a dog or cat on an Air France aircraft, and they also carry other types of animals like horses, chicks, and ornamental fish.

Air France KLM Martinair Cargo can transport any type of animal, but you'll need to check their pet cargo policy for specific requirements.

To travel with your pet in the cargo hold, you'll need an IATA-approved carrier, such as the Petmate Sky Kennel or Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel.

These carriers are sturdy, well-ventilated, and designed to withstand the rigors of transport, providing your pet with a safe and comfortable journey.

You'll need to research your destination country's regulations, as each place has its own set of rules, and it's up to you to follow them.

Cats and dogs weighing less than 8 kg (17 lbs) can travel in the passenger cabin with you, but you'll need permission from customer service first.

Your pet needs to be at least 15 weeks old and have all required vaccinations to travel in the cabin.

You can book your pet's travel online with Air France, but be sure to check weight requirements and have necessary documentation ready.

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Air France allows emotional support animals on flights, but there are specific travel requirements, including requesting approval 48 hours before departure and providing documentation.

You'll need to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours early for check-in when traveling with your pet, as this extra time is essential for handling paperwork and security procedures.

Air France offers pet relief areas at their hub airports, equipped with grass or turf surfaces, making your pet travel experience more comfortable.

How to Book

To book a spot for your pet on Air France, you'll need to make a special request at least 48 hours before your flight.

First, check if your pet meets the weight requirements: between 8kg and 75kg for travel in the hold, or 8kg (17lb) or less for cabin travel.

Plan ahead, as Air France only allows one pet per passenger in the cabin, and their carrier should be no larger than 46x28x24cm (18x11x9in).

Your pet's container must meet specific requirements for hold transport, including being the right size and made of approved materials.

Heads up: snub-nosed breeds can't travel in the hold, and Category 2 dogs will need a mandatory cage.

Sherry Jakubowski

Junior Copy Editor

Sherry Jakubowski is a meticulous and detail-oriented Copy Editor with a passion for crafting compelling content. With a keen eye for grammar and syntax, she has honed her skills in refining articles to perfection. Her expertise spans a wide range of topics, including health and wellness, with a notable focus on canine health issues.

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